Accident Details
On 26 August 2013 at 1600 hrs, an EV-97 TeamEurostar UK microlight aircraft (registration G-CGZF) was involved in an accident at Membury Airfield, Berkshire. The aircraft was engaged in a training flight as part of the Private Pilot's Licence syllabus, specifically Exercises 12 and 13 (Introduction to Takeoff).
Aircraft and Crew Information
The aircraft, manufactured in 2011 with serial number 3928, was powered by one Rotax 912-UL piston engine. The commander, aged 27, held a Private Pilot's Licence and had a total flying experience of 1,200 hours, with 200 hours on type. His recent flying included 200 hours in the last 90 days and 70 hours in the last 28 days. There was one student pilot on board. No injuries were sustained by either occupant.
Sequence of Events
The student pilot was performing his fifth assisted takeoff. With full power applied, some right rudder pedal pressure was necessary to maintain directional control. The instructor was providing assistance but considered the situation satisfactory until, at a speed of about 30-35 mph, the student suddenly applied full left rudder pedal and froze. The instructor shouted "I have control" but the student did not appear to hear. The instructor could only oppose the input enough to centre the rudder. The student then closed the throttle while the instructor attempted to apply full power to initiate a go-around, but the student's actions prevailed. The aircraft veered left off the runway and came to a stop in a ploughed field.
Damage
The accident resulted in damage to the propeller, nose landing gear, and fuselage.
Pilot Statements
The student later reported having some hearing difficulties but could not explain the erroneous pedal input. The instructor noted that more time might have been required for briefing, but because the student had successfully completed takeoffs previously, the instructor may have been lulled into a false sense of security regarding the student's ability.